Matter of fact Quote by John Lewis
“The assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. made me very, very sad, and I morned and I cried like many of our citizens did. As a matter of fact, when I heard that he was, that he had been assassinated, I was with Robert Kennedy in Annapolis, campaigning with him. But somehow I said to myself, I'm not going to become bitter or hostile. I'm not going to give up or give in. I threw myself more into the campaign, and I made a commitment to myself that I would do what I can to continue the work of Dr. King, and later, after Bobbie Kennedy was assassinated two months later, to continue his effort to make our country a more just, a more fair country.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: 1968 Democratic National Convention, John Lewis on continuing Dr. King's legacy
After witnessing Dr. King's assassination, Lewis chooses not to become bitter but to deepen his commitment to civil‑rights activism and justice.
In simple terms: He decides to stay hopeful and keep fighting for justice despite tragedy.
Key Takeaway
Commit to non‑violent activism and perseverance in the face of loss.
Themes
justice
activism
resilience
non‑violence
historical memory
Mood
determined
hopeful
reflective
Type
motivational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- community organizing
- voting drives
- public speaking
- policy advocacy
Key Concepts
civil rights
personal resolve
social change
Questions to Reflect On
- How can individuals sustain hope after loss?
- What actions can strengthen a just society today?
A Different Perspective
Opposition and systemic racism can impede progress.
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